A tribute to the Irish-American saloons of old New York, with a glow of comfortable tradition. The grand oak bar is noted for serving "every whiskey known to man", with Toronto's most extensive beer list. Changing monthly, the menu concentrates on the freshest ingredients in entirely homemade preparation. Traditional, but sophisticated Irish fare features Kerry lamb, fresh smoked Atlantic salmon, and the noble potato presented in eight different ways. Also famed for Angus steaks, chicken, massive salads, and Canadian hardwood charcoal barbeque. 143 Danforth Avenue (416) 463-3086

The “farm” in Eigensinn Farm is not a term of endearment, but the real thing. One must travel out of the city to find this real working farm, with whimsical sculptures scattered throughout its open fields. Homemade preserves, vegetables pulled from the garden right outside served in several perfectly executed courses— this is Canadian dining in all its glory. The true definition of local, those ribs you’re eating came from an animal that was grazing outside just days ago. One of the top restaurants in North America, the once-in-a-lifetime experience of dinner at Eigensinn Farm is worth all its bragging rights. Be warned that the trek to chef Michael Stadtländer’s farm is about two hours from Toronto, and the cost is $300 per person. Reservations must be made well in advance, as they seat only twelve per night on the few nights that they are open each week. There’s no corkage fee, so bring your own wine.

By travelling an hour west of Toronto, Mary Beaton and William Bennette has brought refined English style dining to Ontario. This elegant country hotel with its exquisite surroundings, offers quiet, elegant service and glorious food. For dinner, Chef Jason Bangerter delivers a bountiful menu featuring the seared Foie Gras with pork belly appetizer with pears, raisins and hazelnuts, and the entree of milk poached Veal with crispy sweetbreads. Do not pass up the award winning desserts such as Peach and Lavender Panna Cotta with roasted peaches and lavender cream, or the decadent Chocolate Cake with Chanterelle ice. Dressing for dinner is a nice change of pace – there are no jeans or shorts permitted in the dining room. An experienced sommelier will recommend a perfect match from a selection of over 1000 international wines. To complete the experience, book for an overnight if possible.

Captivating country charm, exquisite cuisine, attentive service and a warm welcome await you in the picturesque Caledon Hills, only 40 minutes northwest of Toronto. The Millcroft Inn is the perfect venue for a glass of wine by the fire, a leisurely lunch on the patio, or a sumptuous dinner in the glassed-in "Pod" with a view of the mill falls. The splendid setting is the perfect complement to the continental epicure. Magnificent grilled entrees-- Beef Tenderloin, Grilled Medallions of Caribou, Breast of Muscovy Duck are presented with panache by a highly professional wait staff.

Nestled amid gently rolling vineyards in the Niagara Peninsula you’ll find the charming Restaurant at Vineland Estates Winery, a perfect gem luring big city types into the bucolic countryside. Don’t let the relaxed atmosphere fool you, the Chef is a master at combining international flavours and cuisines. You might try a Smoked Duck Breast with Roasted Beet Purée highlighted by an Icewine Agrodolce, or Potato Gnocchi and Rabbit Confit kissed with in-house Tomato Olive Sugo. Finish it all off with Roasted Sweet Potato Cheesecake, Marshmallow Gelato, or a Pecan Praline. The winery’s Vintage Reserve wines are well represented and well priced. A perfect culinary getaway in any season.